Gen Z listeners, take note! Great songs that color the J-pop scene
The definition of a good song differs from person to person, doesn’t it?
Songs about someone special, ones that give you a push, or those that depict strong determination—all of these could be considered good songs, but it likely depends on the listener’s feelings and situation.
So this time, we’ve focused on Gen Z listeners and compiled a list under the keyword “good songs.”
They’re all great tracks, so we hope not only Gen Z but listeners of all ages will enjoy them.
- An iconic song by a female artist that Gen Z can get hyped about with their peers
- Recommended for Gen Z! Classic love songs sung by female artists
- Tear ducts guaranteed to burst! Heart-wrenching masterpiece songs I’d recommend to Gen Z
- Tear-jerking masterpieces sung by male artists that I’d recommend to Gen Z
- Get fired up for the hot season! Summer songs recommended for Gen Z
- Nothing but famous and hit songs! K-pop tracks recommended for Gen Z
- Hype songs sung by male artists that are recommended for Gen Z
- Revival hits driven by social media! Classic Showa-era songs popular with Gen Z
- Definitely when you want a boost of power! Energetic songs recommended for Gen Z
- Karaoke songs sung by female artists recommended for Gen Z
- Only masterpieces that color the season of meetings and farewells! Spring songs recommended for Gen Z.
- [Women Artists Only] Breakup Songs Recommended for Gen Z
- Packed with everything from friendship to romance! Youth anthems recommended for Gen Z
Gen Z listeners, take note! “Good songs” coloring the J-POP scene (21–30)
cold; curt; blunt; unfriendlyRADWIMPS
A song that captures the frustration of an ambiguous relationship and the ache of unrequited feelings.
The delicate emotions that sway with the other person’s attitude and the uncertain distance where neither can read the other’s heart are carefully woven with the distinctive word choices of Yojiro Noda.
Although it’s a track from the 2018 album ANTI ANTI GENERATION, the music video featuring Nana Komatsu and Fuju Kamio also created a big buzz.
In August 2020, it was chosen as the theme song for the ABEMA show Who Is the Wolf?, once again resonating with many listeners.
Unfolding at a relaxed tempo, this piece is a gentle companion for nights troubled by love or quiet moments of contemplation.
favorite songfumino
Released in January 2026, the debut single “favorite song” features a catchy pop band sound highlighted by electric guitar.
Created as a “gift” from Chanmina to her, the track drew major attention with a live performance on Nippon TV’s “Shuichi.” Its warm yet powerful worldview affirms being true to oneself and gently encourages those who are ready to take on a challenge.
Just listening to it fills you with energy—truly a vitamin song.
GloriousBE:FIRST
A song packed with the charm of a dramatic, emotional ballad.
Offering a glimpse into a new side of BE:FIRST, this track celebrates people boldly pursuing the dreams they’ve seen and their own futures, as well as the effort poured into that journey.
Released digitally in November 2023, it was also chosen as the support song for the 102nd All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.
Imbued with a strong determination to overcome hardships and challenges and to dream of a shining future, this is a recommended track for anyone who wants to keep looking forward and doing their best, even in tough circumstances.
CorrectRADWIMPS
A RADWIMPS song with outstanding lyrics that resonate with young people and a refreshing feel.
Written specifically for the NHK special “RADWIMPS 18 Festival,” the piece has become widely loved as a staple for graduation season.
In February 2024, a CD with a choral score was released.
With lyrics centered on themes like friendship, personal growth, and harmony with society—psychological development and self-discovery during youth—the song has struck a chord with many young listeners.
Conveying the message that life’s answers differ for each person, it reminds us of the importance of following our own inner voice.
I’ll call your name.SUPER BEAVER
A four-piece rock band, SUPER BEAVER, known for their straightforward, hard-hitting lyrics and emotional rock sound, has garnered strong support with this track.
Released in July 2021 as the theme song for the film Tokyo Revengers, the song powerfully sings about the importance of human connections and bonds.
Its theme of linking the past and the future aligns perfectly with the film’s time-leap storyline.
Energetic yet deeply expressive, the song is sure to gently encourage those feeling lost in life or wanting to reflect on relationships with loved ones.
Experience this quintessentially SUPER BEAVER, powerful rock tune for yourself.
Philosophy[Alexandros]
![Philosophy[Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/jIysnJZewLQ/sddefault.jpg)
A rock number that powerfully expresses the rebellious spirit and inner conflicts of youth is gripping the hearts of Gen Z listeners.
In this work, the energetic band sound and standout vocals vividly capture the emotions of young people.
Spanning about six minutes, the song’s structure rises and falls, with a memorable build-up that starts from the intro.
Released in January 2020, it was tied in with NHK’s youth program “18 Fes,” where a live performance was also showcased.
It’s a recommended track for those on a journey of self-discovery or anyone looking to give voice to feelings they’ve kept inside.
Kitearashi
The song planned as NHK’s theme for 2020 was born from a collaboration with Kenshi Yonezu.
Released in July 2020, it drew major attention as Arashi’s 58th single.
It debuted at No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and sold 911,000 copies in its first week, truly making it a work that symbolizes the times.
With lyrics themed around a kite, it carries both the powerful drive to pursue dreams and hope, and a warmth that evokes our connections with those around us.
Celebrating how vital family and loved ones are—how their support gives us the courage to chase our dreams—this heartwarming pop tune gently nudges anyone about to take a new step forward.